Country parks and greenways

Warwickshire’s Country Parks operates a cash-less car parking pay and display system to make it easier for visitors on arrival. Please note that we are now able to accept payments via a smartphone or smartwatch as well as contactless cards. Parking Charges apply for all, including blue badge holders.

Lay-by at Crackley Lane Bridge.

Toilets

The nearest toilets are at Abbey Fields.

Access needs

Please phone 02476 305 592 for more details.

Barbecues and fires

Barbecues and fires are not allowed, but picnics are welcome.

Countryside Code

Natural England and Natural Resources Wales have updated the Countryside Code advice for countryside visitors. Please read the Countryside Code so we can all enjoy the outdoors responsibly.

History

The railway branch line from Berkswell to Kenilworth Junction was opened in 1884. It effectively provided a short cut avoiding Coventry for freight trains heading south. Rumour has it that it was used in the war for the transport of munitions and the siding at Berkswell, left when the track was lifted in the 1960s, was used for ‘parking’ the Royal Train when the Queen visited the area. Later, even the siding was removed to make way for a station car park.

Left to itself, the old railway became a wildlife corridor. Hawthorn, birch and other plants quickly took hold and softened the edges, animals and birds found cover for dens and nests. People also found a traffic free route to and from Crackley Wood where, if you were quiet, you might see a fox.

Warwickshire County Council took ownership of the route in the 70’s but apart from work to clear a wider path, it was left to the walkers and the wildlife.